Meaning
Non-contact metrology method that captures the three-dimensional coordinates of a part surface using light. Optical point cloud scanning produces millions of individual data points that represent the physical geometry of a moulded component. This digital twin allows for a comprehensive comparison against the original CAD model.
Data Density
High-resolution sensors capture intricate details that traditional touch probes might miss. Optical point cloud scanning is particularly useful for measuring complex organic shapes or flexible parts that would deform under the pressure of a physical probe. The resulting map shows deviations across the entire surface rather than at just a few points.
Inspection Speed
Capturing the entire geometry of a part takes seconds compared to the hours required for manual measurement. Optical point cloud scanning enables rapid first-article inspection and faster troubleshooting of warp issues. The speed allows for more frequent checks during a production run to monitor process stability.
Color Mapping
Software converts the point data into a visual heatmap where different colors represent the degree of deviation from the nominal design. This visualization makes it easy to identify areas of excessive shrinkage or tool wear. Optical point cloud scanning provides a clear path for tool technicians to make adjustments.
The generated data serves as a permanent record of the part quality at a specific point in time.
